Chapter 1: Founding Provisions
CHAPTER 1
foundinG pRoViSionS
Republic of South Africa
1. �
The Republic of South Africa is one, sovereign, democratic state founded on the following
values:
(a) � Human dignity, the achievement of equality and the advancement of human
rights and freedoms.
(b) � Non-racialism and non-sexism.
(c) � Supremacy of the constitution and the rule of law.
(d) � Universal adult suffrage, a national common voters roll, regular elections and
a multi-party system of democratic government, to ensure accountability,
responsiveness and openness.
Supremacy of Constitution
2. �
This Constitution is the supreme law of the Republic; law or conduct inconsistent with it is
invalid, and the obligations imposed by it must be fulfilled.
Citizenship
3. �
(1) There is a common South African citizenship.
(2) � All citizens are—
(a) equally entitled to the rights, privileges and benefits of citizenship; and
(b) equally subject to the duties and responsibilities of citizenship.
(3) � National legislation must provide for the acquisition, loss and restoration of
citizenship.
National anthem
4. �
The national anthem of the Republic is determined by the President by proclamation.
National flag
5. �
The national flag of the Republic is black, gold, green, white, red and blue, as described
and sketched in Schedule 1.
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